7 tips can help you avoid low back injuries during the icy and snowy winter season

In addition to slips and falls on the ice, shoveling the driveway is a common cause of back injuries during the winter months. As is the case with most low back injuries, prevention is the most the most important thing to know.  

Here are 7 tips can help you avoid low back injuries during the icy and snowy winter season. 

  1. Use an Ergonomic Shovel 

This may sound strange, but not all shovels are created equal. There are “ergonomic” snow shovels that can help reduce the pressure on your back while shoveling snow. These strange looking shovels with the bent handles will minimize excessive bending and allow you to bend your knees only slightly and arch your back very slightly while keeping the shovel blade on the ground. 

  1. Stretch and Warm up Your Muscles Before Shoveling 

Spend 5 to 10 minutes stretching before heading out to shovel that driveway. Doing stretches for the legs, back and shoulders will loosen up your body and make your shoveling safer for your back. Sit in a chair with your legs extended out in front of you and gently lean forward reaching for your feet. This stretches your hamstrings and is a great way to prevent lifting injuries. You can also try shoveling after going for a short walk, when your muscles are looser and warmed up. 

  1. Always Use Proper Lifting Techniques 

Whenever possible, push the snow out of the way rather than lifting and throwing it with the shovel. If you must lift the snow, follow these helpful techniques: 

  • Always face towards the object you intend to lift – have your shoulders and hips both squarely facing it. 
  • Bend at the hips, not the low back, and push the chest out, pointing forward. Then, bend your knees and lift with your leg muscles, keeping your back straight. 
  • Keep your loads light and do not lift an object that is too heavy for you. 
  • If you must lift a shovel full, grip the shovel with one hand as close to the blade as comfortably possible and the other hand on the handle (handle and arm length will vary the technique). 
  • Avoid twisting the back to move the snow to its new location – always pivot your whole body to face the new direction. 
  • Keep the heaviest part of the object close to your body at your center of gravity – do not extend your arms to throw the snow. 
  • Walk to the new location to deposit the item rather than reaching or tossing. 

 

  1. Don’t Do Too Much at One Time 

Shoveling small amounts of snow frequently is less strenuous than shoveling a large amount at once. Spend only 15-20 minutes at a time shoveling the snow. Put the shovel down and go do something else. After a short break, return to shoveling for another 15-20 minutes. If you have a massive amount of snow to move, if possible, removing snow over a period of days. In deep snow, remove a few inches off the top at a time, rather than attempting to shovel the full depth at once. 

  1. Wear the Right Footwear 

Slippery conditions while shoveling can lead to slipping and/or falls and strains that can injure your back. Shoes or boots with good treads will help to minimize injuries from slipping. You can buy ice and snow grips for your shoes or boots. They are an inexpensive and very useful tool to help prevent slips and falls. Spread sand or rock salt on your sidewalk or driveway to increase traction and reduce the likelihood of slipping on the ice. 

  1. If Possible, Stop Shoveling Invest in a Snow Blower Instead 

If you live in an area where there is plentiful snowfall, a snow blower becomes a common sense and good investment. When used correctly, a snow blower can put less stress on your low back than shoveling. Avoid stressing your back by using the power of your legs to push the snow blower while keeping your back straight and knees bent. 

  1. Make Sure Your Spine and Posture is Healthy and Strong 

Having a properly aligned spine is essential to prevention of back injuries. Poor posture represents weakened, damaged and injured areas of the spine. If your Posture isn’t looking so good, it’s time to get it checked. Call our office for a free computerized postural analysis. 

 

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